Best meal: Penang assam laksa is rated number 7 of the top 50 foods in the world by CNN, quoted here: "Poached, flaked mackerel, tamarind, chili, mint, lemongrass, onion, pineapple, one of Malaysia's most popular dishes is an addictive spicy-sour fish broth with noodles (especially great when fused with ginger), that'll have your nose running before the spoon even hits your lips"

Best deal: Free admission to Batu Caves, but it will cost you climbing 272 steps!

Best time to go: December and January are the best weather months, but are likewise the most popular tourist months

Best travel tip: Don't look for things that are familiar! You'll get all you want of those when you get home. Expect differences and welcome them as one of the reasons you travel.